Gum disease is a common condition. If you visit the dentist regularly, you have probably been told how important proper oral hygiene and dental cleanings are for preventing gum disease. Although gum disease is common, many people are unaware how gum disease affects your oral health and entire body. In fact, many patients hold common misconceptions about this oral health ailment. Test your periodontal knowledge with the short quiz below.

  1. Gum disease goes away on its own. True/False
  2. Up to 80% of the adult population in the United States will develop some form of gum disease. True/False
  3. Brushing your teeth is more beneficial than flossing. True/False
  4. Gum disease is not a serious condition. True/False
  5. Tooth loss is a natural part of aging. True/False
  6. Gum disease treatment is painful. True/False

Answers

  1. False – Gum disease must be addressed with professional cleanings and thorough oral hygiene to reverse the early stages of the condition. When gum disease advances into periodontitis, the condition must be managed with treatment to disrupt the infection.
  2. True – Estimates vary, but recent studies indicate that up to 80% of adults will have some type of periodontal disease.
  3. False – Flossing is especially beneficial for preventing gum disease and cleaning in between the crevices of your teeth that your toothbrush can’t reach.
  4. False – Periodontal disease develops into a serious illness. The widespread infection of gum tissue aggressively destroys bone and teeth.
  5. False – Tooth loss is not a natural part of aging. Your teeth are meant to last a lifetime. Gum disease is the number one reason for tooth loss in adulthood.
  6. False – Traditional methods of addressing gum disease may produce patient discomfort. However, recent innovations in dentistry, such as laser therapy promote optimal comfort for patients receiving gum disease treatment.

To learn more about gum disease or to schedule an examination, contact one of our offices nearest you. We serve patients throughout Riverside County.